• Green Flag sees a 21 per cent increase in customers calling regarding fuel related breakdowns in France
• A call every six minutes being received by breakdown companies from UK motorists running out of fuel in France
• A 53% increase in breakdowns of UK drivers in France over the bank holiday weekend was predicted, before the fuel shortage took hold
• Drivers warned to check ferry companies’ and Euro Tunnel’s terms and conditions if they are planning to carry extra fuel in their vehicle for the trip
   

With the continued fuel shortages in France, Green Flag Breakdown has revealed it is responding to a 21 per cent increase in calls related breakdowns, as British travellers’ tanks are running dry.

With the bank holiday weekend almost upon us, Green Flag are already predicting a 53% increase in breakdowns from customers travelling in France. However, with no sign of an end to the industrial action that has caused the fuel shortages across the channel, they expect the number of breakdowns to increase further. Green Flag believes a motorist n every six minutes is calling a breakdown provider

With reports indicating that fuel is becoming scarce in and around Calais as supplies at service stations continue to become low. Those stations that do have stock are limiting the amount that can be purchased by each vehicle. With this in mind Green Flag is warning drivers planning to journey across the Channel, who are contemplating carrying additional fuel in containers stored in their vehicle, to check with their ferry operator or Euro Tunnel to check whether it is permitted.

Candace Gerlach spokesperson at Green Flag, said: “With limited supplies of fuel available, those planning their trip to France will need to plan their journey carefully and think about fuel economy. While there is some fuel available, the amount being distributed is being limited per driver. For those drivers that have a long journey ahead it’s worth keeping to roads were there are plenty of fuel stations along the route. Anyone contemplating carrying extra fuel in their vehicle should check with their ferry company or Euro Tunnel before their journey.

Green Flag’s fuel saving tips:
• Slow down -Keeping your speed down can reduce the fuel consumption of the engine. It goes without saying that we should all stick to the speed limit, but your car's handbook will tell you what the most fuel-efficient in-town and out-of-town speed is for you. 
• Lose weight - Avoid carrying any unnecessary weight in the car as heavy loads put more strain on the vehicle, leading to higher fuel consumption. 
• Find the shortest route - Taking the trouble to find the shortest route to your destination can make the journey more economical. Our online route planner can help you find the shortest route - from your doorstep to any destination in Europe. 
• Cut the air con - Running the air conditioning increases the car's fuel consumption. So, if you want to save fuel and money, keep it to a minimum. 
• Close the windows - Open windows and sunroofs create drag, which means that you won't travel as far per litre of fuel. 
• Check your pressure - Checking tyre pressure regularly not only improves the safety and performance of the tyres, it also keeps the car running at the optimum fuel efficiency. 
• Smoothly does it - Try to drive as smoothly as possible and maintain a steady speed. Braking and then accelerating regularly will reduce the number of miles per litre the car can clock up. It's easier to drive smoothly and also much safer. Aim to keep a gap of at least two seconds from the car in front of you. 
• Give the car a break - Stuck in heavy traffic or waiting for passengers? Turn off the engine to avoid wasting fuel. 
• Stay tuned - Have your car's engine tuned at a reputable local garage. This way you can make sure it’s always running at the optimum fuel usage level. 
• Check the oil - As well as maintaining the correct levels of oil, if you want to save money on fuel you should also check the type of oil used. Some energy-efficient types can increase the number of miles per litre. 

                                               ENDS

Notes to Editors:

For further information, please contact 

Simon Henrick
Head of news and issues
Green Flag

Tel: 01651 831668
Mobile: 07833 166717

Email: [email protected]
 
About Green Flag
With over 40 years experience, Green Flag provides customers with breakdown cover 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Customers have access to a network of breakdown operators across the UK and mainland Europe (Euro Plus cover required).
 
Green Flag Motoring Assistance is underwritten by U K Insurance Limited, Registered office: The Wharf, Neville Street, Leeds LS1 4AZ. Registered in England and Wales No 1179980. U K Insurance Limited is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority.

Green Flag and U K Insurance Limited are both part of Direct Line Insurance Group plc. 
 
Customers can find out more about Green Flag products or get a quote by calling 0345 246 1557, connecting via the Green Flag Rescue Me Application, or visiting www.greenflag.com

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